Around the NFL, trade rumors are picking up steam as we get closer to June 2 — the first day the Atlanta Falcons can move wide receiver Julio Jones and receive the salary cap relief they need to sign their 2021 draft class. Will it be the New England Patriots, the Tennessee Titans, or someone off the radar that nobody expects?
While we don’t know that quite yet, we do know that trade talks are in full effect. According to a report by ESPN’s Dianna Russini, Atlanta has received several trade offers for Jones, including a future first-round pick.
The Atlanta Falcons have discussed several trade offers for Julio Jones, including an offer for a future first round draft pick, per sources.
— Dianna Russini (@diannaESPN) May 27, 2021
There is a sense around the league a trade could go down as early as next week.
The Falcons aren’t in great position to play hardball when negotiating since they have very little leverage due to the salary cap situation. The team received a second-round pick in return for Mohamed Sanu after dealing him to the Patriots a year ago. We all know Jones is in another class than Sanu, but that may not be reflected in what the Falcons ultimately do receive back.
Atlanta can save $15.3 million by trading Jones after June 2. Even after the trade, though, the team would owe $7.75 million in dead cap this season and another $15.5 million in 2022.
Dead Cap if Traded After 6/1
— Spotrac (@spotrac) May 27, 2021
Julio Jones
21: $7.75M ($15.3M saved)
22: $15.5M
Aaron Rodgers
21: $21.1M ($16M saved)
22: $17.2M
Zach Ertz
21: $4.2M ($8.5M saved)
22: $3.5M
Deshaun Watson
21: $5.4M ($10.5M saved)
22: $16.2M
Danielle Hunter
21: $5M ($12.1M saved)
22: $7M
Considering the circumstances, a future first-round pick would have to be considered a win. Julio is one of the most physically dominant talents I’ve ever laid eyes on, however, his cap number, age and Atlanta’s desperation to make a deal will take away some of his trade appeal.
